A public forum about ocean health in Oregon

What are the phenomena of ocean acidification and coastal hypoxia? What is causing them? What are their likely impacts on marine species and coastal communities, and what can be done to minimize these impacts?

In October 2012, PISCO and collaborators hosted a public forum to explore these questions and learn about the cutting-edge research being conducted. Scientists from Oregon State University, management agencies, and industry presented to nearly 100 citizens at Tillamook Bay Community College. Presentations were followed by a panel discussion. This event was hosted by the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO) at Oregon State University through funding awarded by Oregon Sea Grant.

"And last year, a team of researchers led by Oregon State University professor George Waldbusser found that the pH in the lower part of the Chesapeake Bay is declining at a rate that’s three times faster than the open Pacific Ocean, partly because of increased nutrient runoff from farming and other activities."